Diverticular disease is a very common condition which occurs due to the ageing of muscles that make up the wall of the large bowel.

Small bulges develop as the internal layer of the bowel pushes outwards through the weakened muscle to form pockets called diverticulae.

In many people, this process causes no problems or symptoms at all, however one in four people will develop symptoms from this condition.

Diverticulitis

The diverticulae (pockets) vary in size, and occasionally small amounts of faeces (stool) can get trapped in them.

Over time the bowel wall becomes inflamed and this condition is called diverticulitis.

The inflammation can flare up and subside without any medical intervention, however if the diverticulitis becomes more severe, treatment in hospital with antibiotics may be necessary, but this is rare.

Symptoms of diverticular disease

Left sided abdominal pain

Constipation/diarrhoea

Prevention of diverticular disease

It is thought that a high-fibre diet can help the large bowel function more efficiently.